Penta-Ocean Construction Co has announced the completion of construction of CP-8001, the first Japanese multi-purpose self-elevating platform equipped with a large crane. The vessel will work primarily in the offshore wind sector.
GustoMSC supervised the basic design of the installation vessel and Japan Marine United Corporation undertook construction.
After delivery the vessel went through sea trials in Japanese coastal waters in preparation for upcoming offshore wind installation work and other marine work.
Penta-Ocean said the Port of Kitakyushu is home port for the new vessel.
The company said the vessel is designed to install ‘large marine structures’ such as 10-MW offshore wind turbines. Its jack-up legs enable it to do so in water depths of up to 50 m.
The vessel is equipped with a continuous hydraulic jacking system developed by GustoMSC and a dynamic positioning system.
As highlighted previously by OWJ, the Japanese Government recently passed a bill which sets a national framework for developing offshore wind.
Under the law, the government will set aside offshore areas for wind power projects. Developers will then bid to use the designated areas and successful bidders will be given the right to use the zones for up to 30 years.
This is a crucial step for Japan’s future energy strategy, sending a strong signal that the government is committed to long-term investment into offshore wind, which will not only provide a sustainable energy source, but also increase energy security by reducing the country’s reliance on expensive imported LNG.
The new law will come into effect in early 2019, which means that competition for development rights in areas approved for offshore wind can finally get underway.
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